After missing the cut by one stroke his freshman and sophomore years, junior Matthew Delanty is finally headed to the Missouri State Golf Tournnament, May 19-20 at Rivercut Golf Course in Springfield, Mo.
“I felt more confident this year,” Delanty said. “I knew I was good enough to make it to state, I just needed to show up at the right time and headspace.”
Delanty’s journey in golf began at a young age, thanks to a simple trip to the driving range with his dad.
“How I first got into golf was my dad took me to the driving range when I was little,” Delanty said. “I just really loved it because it was all on you. The game revolves around you and how you play. You can’t blame anyone else.”
That individual accountability has become one of Delanty’s strengths. With a composed demeanor and strategic mindset, he approaches the course with patience and quiet intensity, according to his coach, Thomas Williams.
“I think what contributed most to my success this season is just staying patient and trusting in myself and my ability to do what I’m able to do on the course,” Delanty said.
Delanty’s path to state has been anything but easy. Both his freshman and sophomore years, he missed qualifying by just one stroke–a razor-thin margin that could have discouraged many young athletes. Instead, it fueled his determination.
“Missing by one stroke those first two years definitely motivated me,” Delanty said. “It reminded me how important every shot is.”
Coach Williams, who has watched Delanty grow over the past four years, has nothing but praise for the senior standout.
“Something that stood out to me about Matthew’s performance is he doesn’t get frustrated easily,” Williams said. “He just goes from shot to shot, which separates him from a lot of players.”
That mental discipline has been evident since Delanty first joined the team as a freshman.
“I knew he had potential to go to state his freshman year when he shot in the low 70s and won a big golf tournament at Crown Point,” Williams said.
What truly sets Delanty apart, though, is his dedication to the game, according to Williams.
“His work ethic is very impeccable for his age, and his love for golf is what makes him such a good all-around golfer,” said Williams. “Because of his love for the game.”
As Delanty heads into state competition, he brings with him not just talent, but years of commitment, maturity, and a deep appreciation for the sport.
“I’m just excited to get out there and give it my all,” he said.
